Illuminations de Blackpool

Billed as the ‘greatest free show on earth’, this spectacular light show started in 1879 and has since grown into a luminous extravaganza using over a million lamps and more than 500 floodlights and spotlights that are erected over 22 weeks, from 3 September-7 November.

Over 15,000 people are expected to enjoy Blackpool's biggest night of the year ‘The Big Switch On Show’ live on 3 September, from a specially built arena in the heart of the UK’s most famous holiday destination. Thousands more will flood into the resort to see the award-winning Blackpool Illuminations as they brighten up the shortening days of autumn.

Come and see 10km of seafront lit in a mesmerising display with twinkling lights, neon, lasers, moving images, glittering tableaux and more. Blackpool’s landmarks like the famous Pleasure Beach, the Blackpool Tower and even the promenade trams are also picked out in fabulous detail with the very latest in lighting technology. In fact, one of the best ways to see the show is aboard one of these beautiful trams that trundle along the seafront. Blackpool’s tram system dates from 1885 and many 1930s models are still in operation. During the illuminations specially lit trams run the length of the lights and are a fantastic way to see the show.

For more information check out the Blackpool Illuminations website.